Niacinamide's Secret Elixir for Ageless Beauty

If you’ve been following the Beautyque blog for long enough - and if you have even a passing interest in the world of skincare - you’ll be only too aware of how trends come and go.

However, there's one workhorse ingredient that has been in the shadows for a long time, but which is now stealing the spotlight from the likes of vitamin C and retinol. Meet niacinamide. 

Also known as vitamin B3, this unsung hero is now trending, thanks to its ability to transform your skin, helping to promote a balanced, even tone and reduce redness, dark spots and dark circles under the eyes. It also protects collagen from premature destruction, reduces inflammation, and prevents dehydration.

Here’s everything you need to know about this star all-rounder.

What is niacinamide?

Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of your skin. In recent years, it has garnered attention for its versatile and wide-ranging benefits, from skin brightening to anti-aging. It can be found in all kinds of skincare products, including serums, creams, and moisturizers.

The benefits of niacinamide

Where do we start? Niacinamide does it all! It’s an anti-inflammatory powerhouse, helping to reduce redness and calm irritated skin, so it’s ideal for those with conditions such as rosacea and acne.

It also regulates sebum production, so if you struggle with oily skin, niacinamide is your new ally. It helps control excess oil, making it a great choice for those prone to acne.

If you have enlarged pores, it will tighten and minimize them, resulting in smoother, more refined skin.

It also evens skin tone, so you can say goodbye to hyperpigmentation and dark spots and hello to a more even, radiant skin.

And there’s more. Your skin's barrier acts as a protective shield, and niacinamide helps fortify it. A stronger barrier means your skin is better equipped to retain moisture and fend off environmental stressors.

It also stimulates collagen production, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and hydrates and moisturizes, not just locking in moisture but helping your skin retain it.

It's suitable for all skin types - even dry or sensitive skin.

How to make niacinamide part of your skincare routine

Serum is the most common way to introduce niacinamide into your regime. Apply a few drops after cleansing and toning, but before moisturizing.

If you prefer a simple routine with fewer steps, opt for a moisturizer that contains niacinamide. It can provide hydration and all the benefits of this wonder ingredient in one easy application.

Some sunscreens are infused with niacinamide, meaning you can protect your skin from harmful UV rays while also reaping the benefits of this ingredient. And because niacinamide is also a potent antioxidant, fighting free radicals that attack our skin via UV rays, when it’s added to sunscreen it does double duty.

Some cleansers and toners also include niacinamide, offering a gentle way to incorporate it into your daily routine.

Are there side-effects?

While niacinamide is generally well-tolerated by most, some people may experience mild and temporary skin irritation, such as redness or itching, especially when first introducing it into your routine. 

This is more likely to occur with higher concentrations. If you have sensitive skin, start with a lower concentration product and gradually increase dosage. Or do a patch test on a small area of your skin to check for any adverse reactions. 

As with any ingredient, if you experience persistent or severe side effects, stop using it immediately.

We hope you enjoyed this exclusive insight into the wonders of niacinamide. If you're keen to stay on the pulse of the latest beauty trends and product recommendations, don't miss our BeautyQurated newsletter. This month, we've spotlighted some of the best niacinamide-infused products that promise to revolutionize your skincare routine. Check it out here.